SGS Global Softlines is pleased to have supported the 2012 AAFA International Product Safety and Environmental Compliance Conferences in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and Shanghai, China on May 17th and 22nd respectively. The conferences were hosted by the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA) and gathered industry leaders from such companies as Levi Strauss & Co., New Balance, Pou Chen, VF Corporation etc together to discuss the requirements of product safety regulations, environmental compliance standards and energy cost savings for factories and suppliers serving the U.S. and European markets. In light of ever stringent industry and public concern over the apparel and footwear industry, government and authorities have required independent testing to ensure product compliance with quality and safety standards. The tests can be costly and time consuming. Information was presented about what constitutes a reasonable test plan and understanding when, how and what to test under a chemical management program. At these two conferences, Dr. Karen Kyllo, Deputy Vice President, Global Softlines, for SGS delivered a talk on the topic of “Testing for Product Safety Compliance – What to test, How to test’ and “Implementing Compliant & Cost Effective Testing Programs”.

SGS Global Softlines has an extensive network of over 35 laboratories worldwide, with a strong team of committed professionals from multi-disciplinary backgrounds. Our internationally accredited state-of-the-art testing laboratories offer a comprehensive range of physical, chemical and functional testing services for components, materials or finished products. We help your company ensure the quality and performance needs and comply with international, industrial and regulatory standards worldwide.

For more information on SGS market access services for footwear and apparel, please contact:

ABOUT SGS

SGS is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company. SGS is recognized as the global benchmark for quality and integrity. With more than 70,000 employees, SGS operates a network of over 1,350 offices and laboratories around the world.